Experimental method

Question 1

Experimental method

Answer 1

involves the manipulation of an independent variable to measure the effect on the dependent variable. Experiments may be laboratory, field, natural or quasi

Question 2

Aim

Answer 2

a general statement of what the researcher intends to investigate; the purpose of the study

Question 3

Hypothesis

Answer 3

a clear, precise, testable statement that states the relationship between the variables to be investigated. Stated at the outset of any study

Question 4

Directional hypothesis

Answer 4

states the direction of the difference or relationship

Question 5

Non-directional hypothesis

Answer 5

does not state the direction

Question 6

Variables

Answer 6

any ‘thing’ that can vary or change within an investigation. Variables are generally used in experiments to determine if changes in one thing result in changes to another

Question 7

Independent variable

Answer 7

some aspect of the experimental situation that is manipulated by the researcher - or changes naturally - so the effect on the DV can be measured

Question 8

Dependent variable

Answer 8

the variable that is measured by the researcher. Any effect on the DV should be caused by the change in the IV

Question 9

Operationalisation

Answer 9

clearly defining variables in terms of how they can be measured